Adventure Sports: The Next Wave

Snowboarding With a Splitboard

Video still by Bryan Smith

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Are difficult endeavors inherently more rewarding? The backcountry ski community has always lived by the mantra “Earn Your Turns.” With snowboarders taking up splitboarding and ski touring gear constantly improving, there are more people than ever in the backcountry. Many of these new converts cite the fact that each run means more to them because they earned it with sweat rather than a pricey lift ticket. By putting more effort into a sport does it inherently give that activity more value or meaning? Watch the video, then post your comments below.

Free Soloing With a Net

Video still by Bryan Smith

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Does climbing without a rope epitomize the climbing spirit? Or is it the reckless, selfish endeavor of adrenaline junkies? No topic sets off a firestorm quicker than free soloing. There is something undeniably proud about it. Confidence and cool–two traits we respect–are mandatory. But the consequences of a free solo fall reverberate through families, friends, and the greater community. Which camp do you fall into? Can an act be both beautiful and foolish? Watch the video, then post your comments below.

Ultra Trail Running

Video still by Bryan Smith

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Could you run 100 miles in one day? That’s a ridiculous question. No way. At some point every ultramarathon trail runner has to seriously ask that question—and answer with an affirmative. So why can’t you do that? Are these extreme athletes anomalies or does an innate ability to will the body past the point of human limits exist in all of us? Watch the video, then post your comments below.

Kayaking Tidal Races

Video still by Bryan Smith

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Is surfing in a sea kayak a fad or a trend? For years, sea kayakers viewed rough water as a hazard to be prepared for, but avoided. A younger generation of sea kayakers is trying to popularize this fringe aspect of their sport. Kayak manufacturers have followed suit with sleeker more nimble vessels. Is anyone following their lead? Does it intrigue you? Watch the video, then post your comments below.

Adventure Filmmaking Revolution

Video still by Bryan Smith

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Why are adventure stories so important? Over the last ten years, the campfire tale has gone digital. There are literally thousands of filmmakers, podcasters, bloggers, and weekend warriors sharing their stories over the soft glow of a computer screen. What about wild places compels us to return home and share our experiences? What makes a good adventure into a great story? Watch the video, then post your comments below.

Climbing the Hardest Mountains

Video still by Bryan Smith

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Does Everest matter? Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the world’s tallest point in 1953. Thousands of climbers have repeated the task. Climbing has advanced light-years and yet we are still fascinated by Everest while alpinists such as Colin Haley rarely receive recognition for their accomplishments. Why? Does Everest still matter to you? Watch the video, then post your comments below.

Great video!! I love adventure and made my second documentary while climbing a 20,000 feet mountain...it really needs lot of stamina and will to 'shoot', in only 50% oxygen....yes I did it with a very ordinary camera...a thrilling experience.